Peace and Security Challenges Facing Small Island Developing States - United Nations Security Council Open Debate 30 July 2015

Abstract

Small Island Developing States constitute about a fifth of the United Nations membership, however the United Nations Security Council has rarely had the opportunity to consider the security challenges they face. As President of the Security Council in July 2015, New Zealand convened and Open Debate on the peace and security challenges facing Small Island Developing States. Over 70 speakers participated in the Open Debate, including 23 at Ministerial level who travelled to New York specifically to attend. Every region was represented. The strong response to the Debate provided a clear signal that the international community wants the Council to engage on these issues.